The World’s Most Powerful Submarines

Ross, David. The World’s Most Powerful Submarines. Part of The World’s Most Powerful Machines series. 2017. 229p. ISBN 978-149965860. Available at 623.82 ROS on the library shelves.

Submarines represent some of the most technologically advanced machines in the world. Designed to move stealthily in great depths and deliver powerful weapons thousands of miles away, submarines have evolved rapidly over the last hundred years from surface ships which could submerge for a few hours at shallow depths to underwater vehicles who can travel great distances on nuclear power without ever emerging from the waters.

From the invention of the Turtle in 1775 to the current crop of ballistic submarines, these underwater vehicles have evolved to provide military solutions to problems. Primarily designed to sink surface ships, submarines continued this role until the emergence of the Cold War, when the nature of military conflicts changed and so did the submarine’ mission. The goal of sinking ships by sneaking close and using torpedoes transformed into providing a devastating nuclear strike anywhere in the world, and hunting other submarines.

This book details the most important types of submarines built in the last two hundred years. Illustrations and photographs are provided for each submarines. Specifications are listed, as well as and extensive list of all armaments and defensive measures carried on board. A short history of the class is explained, and key features are highlighted. Naval and military fans will appreciate the level of details and the numerous observations about each ship.